PHILANTHROPY AND SERVICE

Philanthropy

In 2010, the Eta Epsilon Chapter at JCU adopted Milestones Autism Resources as its philanthropy. Founded in 2003, Milestones is the premier autism resource in Northeast Ohio for information about a person’s social, emotional, educational, recreational, therapeutic, vocational, and housing needs from birth through adulthood. The organization annually serves 1,000 parents and professionals.We are proud to team up with Milestones as a way to keep our efforts within reach, just a few minutes down the road from campus in Beachwood, Ohio. We look forward to volunteering at major events hosted by Milestones (like its annual conference, “Strike It Big” fundraiser, or annual gala), and are excited to interact with teenagers on the spectrum from YouthAbility (one of Milestones’ affiliates). Milestones staff also offers educational training on autism to the members of our chapter.

Beta Theta Pi at John Carroll is also looking forward to working with Dream Days. in 2016, The Eta Epsilon Chapter at JCU adopted Dream days as yet another Philantropy. Founded in Cleveland, Dream Days is a nonprofit organization dedicated to planning, facilitating and providing events for those with developmental and physical disabilities and other chronic conditions. Their goal is to aid in the enrichment of all who participate in a Dream Days function, be they young or old. Our first event is scheduled for Homecoming weekend.

Service

One of Beta Theta Pi’s core values is mutual assistance, serving others in the honorable labors and aspirations of life. The strong emphasis on service is a primary reason why many men choose to join the fraternity at John Carroll. While some members elect to take part in established service opportunities at JCU, such as We The People, Carroll Ballers, or the Labre Project, many brothers also take an interest in one of the domestic or international immersion experiences offered through the university.The chapter has assumed a leadership role on campus with Through the Eyes of a Child, co-sponsoring the event with Students for Social Justice. A Christmas-time favorite for 100+ area elementary-age children, more than 100 JCU students act as a “buddy” for the day taking their child to see Santa, participate in crafts and activities, and eat lunch. 

Through the Eyes of a Child 2016

Additionally, we have developed a number of relationships with local organizations such as the Parma Adult Activities Center, operated by the Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities. Occasionally throughout the year, adults with mental and developmental disabilities come to campus to play sports like kickball or soccer, or even sit down for a round of bingo. We also volunteer at regional events such as the annual American Red Cross blood drive at Landerhaven, greeting blood donors and assisting the Red Cross staff with assorted duties. We are proud of our association with these agencies and are grateful for the opportunity to work with them.